Young and dynamic, Durban attracts many expatriates by its lively and bustling environment, its pleasant climate and its tourist cachet. CNN reports aptly that ‘Joburg is trendy, Cape Town is glamorous, but Durban is cool. Indeed, situated on the coast as well as close to many typical Zulu cultural sites, the city hosts an intercultural mix of spice markets, theatres and art galleries, as well as very popular tourist attractions.
Its great cultural diversity and hospitality also contribute to its position as one of the best cities for expatriates in South Africa. Durban's population is interesting and varied, consisting of Zulu, Afrikaans, Indian and other Asian communities, as well as a large number of British expats.
Furthermore, regardless of the area where you have settled, you can easily gain access to health care services and public transports. However, you are advised to be cautious when travelling by public transport, especially at night.
Durban's neighbourhoods
Each of Durban's neighbourhoods is particular in its own way, thus determining the different rent prices. Those along the coastline (near the city centre) are rather lively and noisy thanks to the presence of several hotels, restaurants and other leisure activities. Urban renewal has produced hip new neighbourhoods like Station Drive Precinct and Rivertown District. Because of its proximity to tourist attractions, you are likely to feel secure due to regular police patrols in the surrounding areas.
Morningside is close to the beach and is ideal for expat families with children thanks to the presence of several prestigious schools. Despite being quite far from the city-centre, Kloof also attracts many foreign nationals. You are also likely to feel secure due to regular police patrols in the area.
To the north of Durban, at some 11 km from the city centre, there are several popular neighbourhoods with spacious houses and apartments.
If you are looking for huge houses and villas at affordable prices in coastal regions, you should head towards Umhlanga, La Lucia, Musgrave and Berea. In the north, some housing estates (or security villages) are access-controlled for peace of mind.
Rent prices in Durban
Rent prices in Durban generally vary from one neighbourhood to another. Thus prices offered in residential neighbourhoods are quite different from those of tourist areas. In 2017, you can get a beachfront bachelor for R3,800 per month, or a 3-bedroom apartment in Glenwood for R7,500 per month.
On the outskirts and around coastal regions, you will need between R4,600 and R10,400 per month depending on other criteria, such as the surface area or security installations. Having a view comes with a bit of a premium. Houses range from R11 000 per month for a 3-bedroom house in Morningside to R35 000 for a 3-bedroom house in Musgrave.
Find accommodation in Durban
Given that Durban has a developed rental market and a high concentration of tourists, housing offers are abundant on the Internet. You can even opt for a holiday rental on your arrival until you find a more appropriate long-term rental. Note that short-term rentals apply for a maximum of three months while long-term rentals involve a one-year lease contract.
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